Mokokchung

Surprisingly urban, though still connected to its roots, Mokokchung is an important town and one of the prime tourist places of Nagaland. Like many other cities and towns of this Northeast India region, Mokokchung is inhabited by tribal people and Christianity is the main religion here. The town is a good holiday place for nature lovers and most importantly for the admirers of rich cultural traditions. Grand festive celebrations of the town draw tourists in huge numbers. Make sure that you have the right tourist information to visit the satellite towns and villages of the region, each offering a wonderful holidaying experience.

Mokokchung interestingly shares its name with Mokokchung District and Mokokchung Village. Counted among the top 3 urban areas of Nagaland, the town is also considered the cultural and intellectual capital of the state. At an height of about 1,325 m. above sea level, the town experiences mild and pleasant summers and moderate to extreme cold, while the monsoons bring heavy downpour. Dominated by Ao Nagas, the town can be best explored during festive celebrations like Moatsu, New Year and Christmas. Mokokchung District is home to 6 mountain ranges, various pristine valleys, gushing streams and scenic splendour all over. Foreign visitors must obtain Restricted Area Permit to visit the region.

October to March

Stated below are some of the must visit places at Mokokchung:

Typical Naga dishes, which usually blend non-vegetarian dishes with boiled preparations, can be enjoyed at popular restaurants like Longkumer Kilem, The Restaurant and Circuit House Kitchen. At Eat Fit, you can enjoy a variety of Chinese dishes. In addition, continental and Indian cuisines can also be easily availed in and around the town.

Various towns in Mokokchung District have marketplaces and shops. Tourists can look for interesting and unique handlooms and handicrafts that represent the decades old traditions of the local tribal people.

Mokokchung, because of its location, boasts of excellent road connectivity via a number of National Highways and state roads. NH 61 and NH 155 are the two major roads serving the district and one can rely on public or private transport for travelling. The nearest domestic airport is at Jorhat (about 106 km. away), while the Guwahati Airport (about 427 km. away) is the nearest international airport. Mariani Junction (about 88 km. away) is the closest railhead, while extensive train service can be enjoyed at Dimapur railway station (about 211 km. away). Local buses and cabs are the best ways to visit the main attractions of Mokokchung.

Some of the other must visit places at Mokokchung include Changtongya Village (offering panoramic views of rivers and valleys), Chuchuyimlang (popularly called the festival village), Ungma Village, Caves of Fusen Kei and Mongzu Ki, Tangkum Marok Spring, Mokokchung Village and Longritzu river valley. Mountain ranges of Asetkong, Ongpangkong, Tzurangkong, Langpangkong, Japukong, Asetkong and Changkikong add significant worth to the sightseeing activities.

Zunheboto (about 58 km.): Another popular destination to explore tribal cultural heritage, it is also home to Ghosho Bird Sanctuary and Satoi Range. Wokha (about 70 km.): Well-known for pristine beauty and attractions like Mount Tiyi, Doyang River and a number of festive celebrations. Tuensang (about 84 km.): Virgin forests, ancient villages and exciting tribal culture. Jorhat (about 105 km.): Base to the world-famous Kaziranga National Park, the city is host to attractions like Majuli (world’s largest freshwater lake island), Lachit Maidam, Gibbob Wildlife Sanctuary, Digital Planetarium, Aqua Park and more. Golaghat (about 125 km.): Worth visiting for the attractions like Uncle Robin’s Children Museum, Baptist Church, Jamuna Water Park and more. Sivasagar (about 130 km.): One of the best place sin the region, it is known for Hindu temples like Sivadol, Vishnudol and Devidol; palaces, museums, water tanks, amphitheatre and Panidihing Bird Sanctuary. Kohima (about 143 km.): Capital of Nagaland, Kohima is popular for attractions like Kohima Zoo, Kohima Museum, Catholic Church, Naga Bazaar and trekking expeditions. Kiphire (about 162 km.): Attractions here include Saramati Mountain, Fakim Wildlife Sanctuary, Twin Stones, Mimi and Salomi Caves, Wawade Waterfall and Sukhayap Rock Cliff. Mon (about 200 km.): Traditional villages with invigorating tribal culture and engaging festivals. Dimapur (about 210 km.): Visit the city to explore ancient ruins, waterfalls and immense scenic beauty.